How to Clean Pleated Blinds and Duette® Shades
Pleated blinds and Duette® shades are not only practical, but also real mood-setters in your home. They provide privacy, regulate light and fit perfectly in both modern and classic interiors.
But how do you keep them clean without damaging the fabric or structure?
Good news: maintaining pleated blinds and Duette® shades is easier than you might think. In this blog, we explain step by step how to clean them safely and effectively.
Pleated Blinds or Duette® Shades – What’s the Difference?
Before we start, a quick explanation:
Pleated blinds consist of a single layer of fabric folded like a harmonica.
Duette® shades (also known as honeycomb blinds) have two layers of fabric with an insulating honeycomb structure in between.
👉 When it comes to cleaning, they are treated almost the same, with a few important points to keep in mind.
1. Keep Them Dust-Free Regularly
Prevention is better than cure. By removing dust regularly, your pleated blinds or Duette® shades will stay beautiful for much longer.
How to do it:
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Use a feather duster or a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner
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Always set the vacuum to the lowest power
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Work gently from top to bottom
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Pay extra attention to the folds, as dust collects there most easily
Doing this every few weeks prevents dirt from settling into the fabric.
2. Removing Stains: Dab, Don’t Rub
Spotted a small stain? No worries — in most cases it’s easy to remove.
What to do:
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Use a clean, slightly damp cloth
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Gently dab the stain
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Work carefully and locally
For stubborn stains:
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Make a mild solution with lukewarm water
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Add a small amount of dish soap or delicate laundry detergent
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Always test first on an inconspicuous area
⚠️ Do not rub — rubbing can damage the fabric or cause pilling.
3. What You Should Avoid
Some cleaning methods may seem convenient but can cause serious damage. Avoid the following:
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Submerging the blinds in water
(with Duette® shades, water can remain trapped inside the honeycomb structure) -
Using aggressive cleaning products
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Hard brushing or scrubbing
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Using a steam cleaner
These methods can distort the fabric or weaken its structure.
Extra Tip: Pollen or Pet Hair
Do you suffer from pollen, dust or pet hair?
Then these tools can be very effective:
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A lint roller
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An anti-static cloth
They remove fine particles without damaging the fabric — ideal for allergy sufferers or homes with pets.
Looking for More Advice on Pleated or Duette® Shades?
Would you like advice not only on maintenance, but also on which type of pleated blind or Duette® shade best suits your windows, interior style and light control needs?
Feel free to visit Port of Altea.
Our specialists are happy to help you with personal advice, smart made-to-measure solutions and practical tips for everyday use — of course with a good cup of coffee.
👉 Together we make sure your window treatments stay beautiful and perfectly match your interior.